Paradigm researcher proposes timestamp ‘escape hatch’ to protect Satoshi-era bitcoin from quantum threats

Dan Robinson, a researcher at Paradigm, has proposed a new model called "Provable Address-Control Timestamps" (PACTS) designed to safeguard dormant Bitcoin, including holdings potentially owned by Satoshi Nakamoto, from future quantum computing threats. This system leverages existing blockchain timestamping functionality, allowing Bitcoin holders to generate and timestamp a proof of ownership before quantum computers become capable of deriving private keys. This proof would serve as a record, enabling users to reclaim their funds on a future quantum-resistant version of Bitcoin. Unlike other proposals that might require a migration window and could render unmigrated coins unspendable, PACTs aims to allow owners to prove control without revealing their activity, thus protecting long-dormant addresses. Robinson suggests this approach allows users to prepare proactively for potential quantum risks without necessitating an immediate decision on a 'sunset' for legacy signatures.

(Source：The Block)